Roger Federer Hails Sinner-Alcaraz Rivalry as Tennis Showcase
Tennis icon Roger Federer recently opened up about the captivating rivalry between Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. He specifically highlighted their dramatic 2025 French Open final, which Alcaraz won after being two sets down. Federer described the match as "unreal" and a moment when the sporting world paused to watch.
Federer's Personal Experience with the Young Stars
The 20-time Grand Slam champion revealed he has practiced with both players. He praised them as incredible ball strikers. Federer noted their rapid progression in recent years has been wonderful for the sport.
"The rivalry with Alcaraz and Sinner is a great one. They play incredible tennis," Federer stated. "I think that French Open final was unreal. I feel like for a second, for a moment, the world stood still in the sporting world and watched towards Paris."
He emphasized the match's fifth set could have ended much sooner for Sinner, but it turned into one of the greatest games ever seen in tennis. Federer believes the momentum from that match continues to benefit the sport.
Alcaraz's Career Grand Slam Quest at Australian Open
Federer also discussed Carlos Alcaraz's opportunity at the 2026 Australian Open. A victory there would complete the Career Grand Slam for the Spaniard. Federer compared this quest to Rory McIlroy's pursuit of the Masters in golf.
"[Carlos] knows about it. It's like Rory going for the Masters. Those things are tough," Federer explained. "In order to complete the career Grand Slam already now would be crazy."
He expressed hope that Alcaraz could achieve this unbelievable, special moment for tennis, while acknowledging the challenge from other players aiming to stop him.
Federer Reflects on His Own Australian Open Triumph
While discussing current tennis, Federer reflected on his own career. He won six Australian Open titles but singled out his 2017 victory as particularly special. That year, he defeated Rafael Nadal in a final he described as "surreal."
"I guess it has to be 2017 just because of the way it ended in the finals against Rafa," Federer said. "I came here with no expectations... I was maybe going to be happy with the quarters."
He admitted his coaches believed he could win, but he was more skeptical given his ranking and lack of play. The dramatic nature of that final makes it one of the most special moments of his career.
Federer concluded by noting the ongoing excitement in men's tennis, with players trying to keep up with Sinner and Alcaraz as they attempt to pull away. He anticipates more incredible performances from both athletes in the future.
